hey Trisha, Sorry I didn't see your question sooner! I would definitely make language learning much more of an organic experience. I think it's really important to learn our second language the same way that we learned our first. I'm teaching an Spanish TPR (total physical response) class at the moment and hoping that I'm accomplishing that. I've heard that the rosetta stone program gives a very organic experience as well, but have no personal experience with it. Good luck with Mandarin!

Hi, Trisha,
I am the co-founder of Work It, Mom! and just wanted to say welcome! I look forward to learning more about you - if you have any questions about the site, please let me know or please join our Newcomers group: http://www.workitmom.com/group_newtoworkitmom. Hope you're having a nice weekend!